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2025 keynote speaker Cynthia Erivo

Pennsylvania

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Registration is now open! Join us for an unparalleled combo of star power, substance, and inspiration with access to the nation’s leading experts on leadership, career and wellbeing.

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2025 LINEUP

Keynotes

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2025 Agenda

Thursday
September 25, 2025
All Day
8:00am – 5:00pm EST
Pennsylvania Convention Center

*Speakers and order of appearance are subject to change.

8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Interactive Hall
EXPLORE OUR INTERACTIVE HALL FEATURING:
  • Career Coaching* and Resume Reviews*
  • Learning Stage offering mini-classes with actionable takeaways and expert tips for navigating your career
  • Wellness Stage offering mini-classes with guidance for achieving physical, emotional, and financial well-being
  • Small Group Networking
  • Bookstore Lounge & Author Signings
  • Complimentary Professional Headshots*

*First-come, first served!

8:45 am – 9:45 am
Session I Program Offerings
LEADERSHIP | EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS

That’s a Good Question | Ladder Up: Fast-Track Your Leadership Ascent

Ready to elevate your career to new heights and dive deep into the strategic moves and mindset shifts that propel you toward top-tier leadership? Whether you’re eyeing a C-suite role or aiming for a senior position, this dynamic session gives YOU the chance to drive the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions about the modern leadership landscape, common career roadblocks, and how to supercharge your leadership skillset. Learn from mentors that illustrate success at every level of the ladder and unlock the secrets to accelerating your leadership journey with purpose and precision.

Stay tuned for speaker updates!

LEADERSHIP | EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS

That’s a Good Question | Everyday AI: Practical Tools for a Smarter Life

From smart home devices to personalized digital assistants, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an invisible yet powerful part of our daily routines. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just AI-curious and seeking ways to use it more intentionally at work, at home, and everywhere in between, this dynamic session gives YOU the chance to drive the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions about how to use it effectively to simplify tasks, boost productivity, and enhance decision-making; and how to ask the right questions to get the most out of AI-powered tools. Join us to demystify the buzz, cut through the hype, and discover how AI can help you live and work smarter every day.

Stay tuned for speaker updates!

CAREER | EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS

That’s a Good Question | Success Strategies in Healthcare & Life Sciencese

Health and life sciences are at the forefront of innovation and transformational change, offering exciting opportunities—and unique challenges—for professionals across the field. Building a career in this space requires not only technical expertise but also strategic thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to collaboration and mentorship. This dynamic session gives YOU the chance to drive the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions about navigating leadership pathways, fostering inclusive and resilient teams, leveraging networks, and positioning yourself for long-term growth and impact. Whether you’re advancing scientific discovery, improving patient outcomes, or mentoring future leaders, this session will offer actionable strategies to grow your influence and thrive in the field.

Stay tuned for speaker updates!

10:15 am – 1:20 pm
Keynote Session (with Lunch Intermission)

Tomi Adeyemi, #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author

Jesse Israel, Human Performance & Wellbeing Expert, 5X Audible, Worldwide Best-Seller, Founder of the The Big Quiet

Hoda Kotb, Award-Winning Journalist & Best-Selling Author

Mel Robbins, Creator & Host of Award-Winning The Mel Robbins Podcast & #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author

Cynthia Erivo, Oscar-Nominated Actress, Author, Singer-Songwriter,  Producer, & Emmy, Grammy, & Tony Award-Winning Performer

Speakers are not listed in order of appearance and lineup is subject to change.


*** LUNCH INTERMISSION | 11:30am – 12:00pm ***

Lunch details can be found here.


 

1:45 pm – 2:45 pm
Session II Program Offerings
LEADERSHIP | WORKSHOP

Becoming the CEO of Your Career

You’re not new to the game—but is your career still playing by outdated rules? In this dynamic session, Brandpreneur and organizational expert Dethra Giles challenges you to think like a strategist, act like a leader, and step fully into your professional authority. This session will show you how to manage your career with the precision of a corporation. Learn how to advocate for your value, build influence across the organization, while cultivating a powerful network that opens new doors, and make bold, intentional moves that align with your vision. If you’re ready to stop playing defense and start leading with purpose and clarity, this session is your blueprint for what’s next.

Speaker: Dethra Giles, CEO, ExecuPrep

LEADERSHIP | WORKSHOP

Leading High-Performing Teams Through Productive Conflict

Avoiding conflict may feel safe—but it often stalls progress. Today’s top teams aren’t free of friction; they know how to navigate it. In this powerful session, organizational psychologist and “Teamwork Doctor” Dr. Liane Davey reveals how conflict, when handled well, fuels clarity, trust, and performance. You’ll explore why avoiding tough conversations undermines success, and how to foster a culture where candid dialogue drives results. With actionable strategies and real-world insights, this session will equip you to embrace tension, resolve issues faster, and lead teams that collaborate at the highest level.

Speaker: Dr. Liane Davey, Organizational Psychologist, “Teamwork Doctor,” & New York Times Best-Selling Author

CAREER | WORKSHOP

Reclaiming Ambition: Turning Pivots into Power Moves

What if a career pause wasn’t a setback—but a strategic move? What if a pivot or transition wasn’t a disruption—but a moment of radical clarity? In this bold and timely talk, Neha Ruch challenges outdated narratives around ambition, identity, success, and self-worth during life’s transitional seasons. Whether you’re stepping away, shifting direction, or simply reassessing what matters most, this session will help you reframe your mindset and recognize the power in the pause. Learn how to navigate transition and shed shame, reject stereotypes, and reclaim your voice with purpose and presence. This isn’t about what’s next—it’s about seeing where you are as a defining chapter in your leadership story.

Speaker: Neha Ruch, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Mother Untitled

CAREER | PANEL

The New Era of Work, Care, and Wellbeing

In today’s hustle culture, the daily grind has become unsustainable—for individuals, families, and organizations. As burnout rises and boundaries blur, the call for change is louder than ever. Panel thought leader Brigid Schulte will provide initial remarks to explore how we got here—and what must shift to build healthier, more human-centered workplaces. She will then be joined by a panel of professionals who will share actionable strategies for both individuals and managers: how to reclaim time, set better boundaries, reduce stress, and foster a culture of trust and flexibility. You’ll walk away with strategies to find more balance, purpose, and sustainability in your work—and help your teams do the same in ways that support productivity and drive bottom-line success.

Thought Leader: Brigid Schulte, NYT Best-Selling Author & Director, Better Life Lab and The Good Life Initiative at New America

Stay tuned for panelist updates!

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT | WORKSHOP

Creating Financial Strength & Resilience in a Shifting World

In today’s turbulent economy—marked by inflation, rising costs, and financial uncertainty—building wealth can feel out of reach. But even in times of volatility, your financial future doesn’t have to be left to chance. In this bold and empowering session, Bola Sokunbi, founder of Clever Girl Finance, shares smart, actionable strategies to crush debt, grow real wealth, and stay retirement-ready without sacrificing the life you want now. Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck, recovering from a setback, or looking to build momentum, this is your moment to take inventory, get clear on your goals, and make intentional money moves that reflect today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities. You’ll leave with the confidence and tools to navigate uncertainty and create lasting financial freedom on your terms.

Speaker: Bola Sokunbi, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Clever Girl Finance

3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Session III Program Offerings
LEADERSHIP | WORKSHOP

Becoming the CEO of Your Career

You’re not new to the game—but is your career still playing by outdated rules? In this dynamic session, Brandpreneur and organizational expert Dethra Giles challenges you to think like a strategist, act like a leader, and step fully into your professional authority. This session will show you how to manage your career with the precision of a corporation. Learn how to advocate for your value, build influence across the organization, while cultivating a powerful network that opens new doors, and make bold, intentional moves that align with your vision. If you’re ready to stop playing defense and start leading with purpose and clarity, this session is your blueprint for what’s next.

Speaker: Dethra Giles, CEO, ExecuPrep

LEADERSHIP | WORKSHOP

Leading High-Performing Teams Through Productive Conflict

Avoiding conflict may feel safe—but it often stalls progress. Today’s top teams aren’t free of friction; they know how to navigate it. In this powerful session, organizational psychologist and “Teamwork Doctor” Dr. Liane Davey reveals how conflict, when handled well, fuels clarity, trust, and performance. You’ll explore why avoiding tough conversations undermines success, and how to foster a culture where candid dialogue drives results. With actionable strategies and real-world insights, this session will equip you to embrace tension, resolve issues faster, and lead teams that collaborate at the highest level.

Speaker: Dr. Liane Davey, Organizational Psychologist, “Teamwork Doctor,” & New York Times Best-Selling Author

CAREER | WORKSHOP

Reclaiming Ambition: Turning Pivots into Power Moves

What if a career pause wasn’t a setback—but a strategic move? What if a pivot or transition wasn’t a disruption—but a moment of radical clarity? In this bold and timely talk, Neha Ruch challenges outdated narratives around ambition, identity, success, and self-worth during life’s transitional seasons. Whether you’re stepping away, shifting direction, or simply reassessing what matters most, this session will help you reframe your mindset and recognize the power in the pause. Learn how to navigate transition and shed shame, reject stereotypes, and reclaim your voice with purpose and presence. This isn’t about what’s next—it’s about seeing where you are as a defining chapter in your leadership story.

Speaker: Neha Ruch, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Mother Untitled

CAREER | PANEL

Power Circles: How to Build Your Personal Board of Advisors

Behind every powerful woman is a powerful circle. In this session, the Thought leader will give initial remarks to explore how to build your own personal board of advisors—mentors, peers, sponsors, and allies—who challenge you, champion your growth, and help you navigate what’s next. She will then be joined by a panel of professionals who will share actionable strategies to help you cultivate intentional relationships that fuel both professional and personal success so you gain a clear sense of who belongs in your circle—and how to find them. Whether you’re looking to expand your network or deepen the connections you already have, this session offers real talk, real strategies, and the inspiration to build your most powerful community yet.

Stay tuned for speaker updates!

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT | WORKSHOP

Creating Financial Strength & Resilience in a Shifting World

In today’s turbulent economy—marked by inflation, rising costs, and financial uncertainty—building wealth can feel out of reach. But even in times of volatility, your financial future doesn’t have to be left to chance. In this bold and empowering session, Bola Sokunbi, founder of Clever Girl Finance, shares smart, actionable strategies to crush debt, grow real wealth, and stay retirement-ready without sacrificing the life you want now. Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck, recovering from a setback, or looking to build momentum, this is your moment to take inventory, get clear on your goals, and make intentional money moves that reflect today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities. You’ll leave with the confidence and tools to navigate uncertainty and create lasting financial freedom on your terms.

Speaker: Bola Sokunbi, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Clever Girl Finance

The CFW APP

More than Just Your Conference Day Companion.

Download the CFW App to access everything you need on event day—like the agenda, speaker info, maps, networking options, and exclusive giveaways.

But don’t delete it after the Conference! The app is your 365-day connection to the CFW community. Stay plugged in with year-round inspiring content, CFW communications, and access to the free Career Connections Program—all in one easy-to-use platform.

2025 Tickets

All in-person tickets include complimentary access to the March 4 National Conference for Women (a virtual gathering).

Before you register, please review Helpful Tips.

$350
PA GO! Ticket

September 25, 2025

Register
$3,500
PA GO! Table

September 25, 2025

Tables seat 10 attendees.

Register
$150
NTL WATCH

March 4, 2026

A Virtual Gathering

PLUS 30-days of
on-demand access

Register

A VIRTUAL GATHERING

Can't Make it to Philly This Year?

Join the CFW community at the National Conference for Women—an extraordinary virtual gathering—on March 4th.

 

The best of CFW, plus exclusive sessions, live speaker Q&A, career services, and more!

Learn More & Register
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Attendee Information

Getting Here
Where is the Conference located?

Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC)
415 Summer St, Boston, MA 02210
Enter at Summer Street
Directions and travel tips

What are the Conference hours?

Convention Center doors open at 7:00 a.m. and the Interactive Hall opens at 8:00 a.m.

Session I programming begins at 8:45 a.m.

The Conference ends at 5:00 p.m.

View the day’s agenda

What is the best way to get to the Convention Center?

We recommend taking public transit or a rideshare to the Conference.

The BCEC is steps away from the MBTA’s Silver Line World Trade Center stop. It’s also a 15-minute walk from South Station, one of Boston’s major transportation hubs.

If you are driving, please carefully review the parking advice on our Travel page. You’ll find maps, prices and even an option to reserve discounted parking in advance!

Please plan ahead to account for traffic, parking, and crowded public transit.

Where can I park?

Parking options can be found on our Travel page. You’ll find maps, prices, and even an option to reserve discounted parking in advance through SpotHero!

Philadelphia City Hall at night with light trails.
Tickets & Entry
What is required for entry?

Your printed badge is required to enter the event. You will wear your badge all day and a lanyard will be provided on-site.

What if I forget or lose my badge?

In the event you lose or forget your badge, you may visit the Help Desk located in the North Lobby.

What should I wear and bring?

Many attendees opt for a business casual look. You will be walking a lot, so we suggest comfortable footwear!

Don’t forget your:

  • Reusable water bottle (refill stations are available in the Interactive Hall and inside meeting rooms & ballrooms)
  • Resume (to take advantage of the complimentary Resume Review service in the Interactive Hall – sign up in person on Conference Day!).
What if I need help with my registration?

If you need assistance with your registration, please contact the primary registrant for your group, or reach out to [email protected].

Lunch
Is lunch provided?

A complimentary boxed lunch and filtered water is provided. Please visit the Conference Lunch page for menu specifics.

What time is lunch?

Lunch will take place in Hall B from 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., during a scheduled intermission within the keynote session (which runs from 10:15 a.m. – 1:20 p.m).

Is there assigned seating for lunch?

The keynote session, where lunch is served, is assigned seating. Your table assignment is located on your badge.

Refer to the Keynote Seating Map or the CFW App to find your table location.

(Seating in all breakout sessions is first-come, first-served.)

Schedule
Is there a printed program book?

A program book will not be provided — however, you can access all session information (and much more) on the CFW app!

Download it today from your app store. Just search “The Conferences for Women.”

Learn more here.

When can I see the keynote speakers?

The keynote session takes place from 10:15 a.m. – 1:20 p.m., with a 30-minute lunch break intermission starting at 11:30 a.m.

Seating for the Keynote session is assigned. You can find your table number on your badge.

When do the breakout sessions take place?

Session offerings are available in three time blocks throughout the day:

Session I – 8:45 – 9:45 a.m.

Session II – 1:45 – 2:45 p.m.

Session III – 3:15 – 4:15 p.m.

Many sessions will be repeated so you don’t have to miss your favorite speakers and sessions.

Find session descriptions on our agenda.

Learn about session types and tracks here.

Safety And Accessibility
Is there security?

Yes, all Conference attendees will be required to pass through security (and magnetometers) upon entry.

I am a nursing mother — where can I pump & store milk?

There is a Mamava nursing pod available on Level 1, across from Meeting Room 159.

There is also a dedicated Nursing Mothers Room with power outlets and refrigeration. More information to come!

Do you have accommodations in place for the hearing impaired?

The Keynote program will be closed-captioned.

Interactive Hall
How do I sign up for career coaching or resume review?

Appointments are first-come, first-served and are open from 8:00 a.m.–10:15 a.m. and 1:20 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Look for signage in the Career Hub inside the Interactive Hall.

What networking opportunities are there for attendees?

Visit the Networking & Connections area within the Interactive Hall to participate in Small Group Networking Meet-Ups.

You can also use the Conferences for Women app to easily connect and share information with fellow attendees.

Sponsors

become a sponsor

Interactive Hall

Interested in becoming an Exhibitor?

Learn More